DAVAO CITY – The Department of Tourism-Davao launched on Tuesday, Aug. 26, the second season of the Davao Adventure Challenge, a year-long program designed to promote the region as a premier adventure tourism hub in the Philippines and Southeast Asia.
The initiative, unveiled at Rogen Inn here, will run from Sept. 1, 2025, to Aug. 31, 2026. It will feature various adventure destinations and activities, from mountain climbs and cave explorations to river treks, island hopping, and coastal expeditions.
In her keynote speech, DOT-11 Regional Director Tanya Rabat-Tan said the DAC Season 2 aims to build on the success of its inaugural run, which saw hundreds of participants exploring the region’s natural and cultural assets following the resounding success in Season 1.
“We saw inspiring stories of first climbs, dives, and explorations of caves and rivers. Beyond the thrill and excitement, what made it remarkable were the partnerships and the sense of ownership that grew along the way,” Tan said.
Tan highlighted the strong support of local government units, adventure providers, and community-based tourism groups, which ensured visitor safety, created livelihood opportunities, and promoted sustainable tourism practices.
“We are excited to begin this new journey with more stunning views, thrilling activities, and unforgettable adventures,” she said, adding that the DAC Season 2 will feature new destinations and activities for both experienced and first-time adventurers.
Highlighted hiking trails are Mount Apo, Mounts Lamabal, Loay, and Dinor, all in Davao del Sur; and Mounts Hamiguitan, Kagan Dinagsaan Peak, and Sandugan Peak, all in Davao Oriental.
Participants will also hike Mount Karilongan and the Eden Mountain Trail in Davao City.
For water thrills, participants will go on water tubing in the Sibulan River in Davao del Sur, have white water rafting in Davao City, skimboarding at Dahican Beach in Mati City, snorkeling at Giant Clam Sanctuary in Samal, and go diving in Samal, Gov. Generoso, and Pujada Bay.
Participants will also have an adventure at Tagtugonan Falls and Matol Falls in Kapalong, Davao del Norte, and Pyalitan Falls and Tagbibinta Falls in Maragusan, Davao de Oro. They will have cave explorations at Su’bon Cave, Fyingi Sol Cave, Okbot Cave, Alina Cave, and Saliducon Cave.
DOT-11 prepared family-friendly activities such as ATV rides and a rainbow slide, skyrides, bouldering experience, an ultralight plane ride experience, eco-cultural tours, and scenic mountain trails in various areas in the Davao region.
Participants will earn points for every site visited and challenge completed, with exclusive rewards and recognition awaiting those who finish the program. Only first-time completed challenges will be added to the participant’s overall score to encourage everyone to try all activities.
Tan said the challenge promotes adventure and strengthens collaborations between the public and private sectors, uplifts local communities, and enhances the region’s competitiveness as a top tourism destination.
“We are now set to welcome fresh challengers and open the door to new and exciting sites,” Tan said. “This program is more than just about prizes. It is a chance to experience nature’s raw beauty and be part of something extraordinary.”
Interested participants were encouraged to coordinate only with DOT-11 accredited providers. Participants are responsible for covering entrance fees, environmental fees, exit fees, and other required payments during their visits, to be paid directly to the site managers or tour handlers.
The DOT-11 official said the program is expected to generate economic benefits, particularly for communities hosting adventure sites, while reinforcing Davao’s brand as a diverse, authentic, and sustainable tourism destination.